Common Eye Diseases and Disorders - Laser Iridotomy

Laser iridotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat angle-closure glaucoma and those at risk for angle-closure glaucoma. 

Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma attack include:

• Severe ocular pain and redness
• Decreased vision
• Colored halos around lights
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Treatment of angle-closure glaucoma

Because raised eye pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss, an angle-closure glaucoma attack must be treated immediately.  Patients who are at risk for developing angle-closure glaucoma should have laser iridotomy. 

What happens during laser iridotomy?

During laser iridotomy, a small hole is made in the iris to create a new way for the fluid to drain from your eye.  The new hole restores the balance between fluid entering and leaving your eye, lowering eye pressure.

The surgery is performed by an eye care professional on an outpatient basis.  Your eye will be numbed with eye drops. A contact lens is place on your eye to be used as a guide for the laser.  A hole about the size of a pinhead is made on your iris.  The actual procedure will only take a few minutes.  You should plan to have someone drive you home after the procedure.

What are the side effects of laser iridotomy?

Some patients may experience the following side effects:

• Blurred vision
• Minor bleeding
• Need for re-treatment
• Double vision

The risks and side effects of glaucoma treatment are less than leaving the glaucoma untreated.

For further information on glaucoma, click on the following links:

• Glaucoma – Causes and Symptoms
• Glaucoma – Types and Testing
• Glaucoma Treatment